Malaspina Galleries

A kayak provides the best possible viewing of the Malaspina Galleries, a spectacular overhanging rock formation sculpted by glaciations and erosion. The "galleries" resemble a gigantic, 90m/295ft-long, 3.5m/11ft-high wave frozen in sandstone. Just don't try to surf it. Or walk on top. It's dangerous. Best time to view the galleries is low tide from spring to fall.

Paddling Highlights

Other favourite days paddles? The Flat Top Islands off Silva Bay offer great paddling, views of snow-capped mountains, seals and seabird colonies.

DeCourcy Island is home to Pirates Cove Marine Park, which has two bays for anchoring and hiking trails through the forest. Mudge Island and the towering Northumberland cliffs are high on the list, too. Gabriola launching points include False Narrows, Degnen Bay and Silva Bay.

Gabriola Passage

If venturing into the Gabriola Passage at the island's north end, be careful: Currents run extremely fast – up to 9 knots – through both the Passage and Porlier Pass. This translates as whirlpools, standing waves, rip curls and other tricky phenomena. Be sure to use the current tables, and time the journey through these areas at slack periods.